Tension is escalating in Abuja's Wuse area due to persistent gunfire exchanges between Nigerian Army personnel and members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) at Banex Plaza. The clash began with sporadic shootings by the Nigerian Army around Austoma Petrol Station and Banex Axis on Aminu Kano Crescent.
Eyewitnesses describe the scene as chaotic, with parts of the road cordoned off to apprehend protesters. Many have abandoned their vehicles due to the shootings. The violence erupted just hours after the United States Embassy in Nigeria issued a security alert, warning American citizens about planned IMN protests in Abuja and other major cities.
The US Embassy advisory cautioned that demonstrations could lead to disruptions, including:
- Roadblocks: Protesters may block roads, causing traffic congestion.
- Traffic Congestion: Demonstrations could lead to heavy traffic and disruptions.
- Physical Confrontations: Past occurrences have involved physical confrontations between protesters and security forces.
Potential protest locations listed in the security warning include:
- Banex Plaza
- Berger Junction
- Unity Fountain
- National Human Rights Commission Head Office
- Eagle Square
- Area 10 Shopping Plaza
- National Mosque
- Al-Noor Mosque
- Fouad Lababidi Mosque
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